Why Is Brinker International (EAT) Up 0.6% Since Last Earnings Report?

Core Insights - Brinker International reported strong fourth-quarter fiscal 2025 results, with both earnings and revenues surpassing estimates and showing year-over-year growth [3][6] - Chili's performance was a significant driver, with same-store sales increasing by 24%, outperforming the casual dining sector [4][9] - Maggiano's faced challenges with a leadership change and declining sales, indicating potential areas for improvement [5][10] Financial Performance - Adjusted earnings per share (EPS) for Q4 were $2.49, exceeding the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $2.43, compared to $1.61 in the prior year [6] - Total revenues reached $1,461.9 million, beating the consensus mark of $1,411 million, and reflecting a 21% increase year-over-year [6] - Chili's segment revenues rose 24% year-over-year to $1,339.6 million, driven by increased foot traffic and effective marketing strategies [7] Segment Analysis - Chili's same-store sales increased by 23.7%, with company-owned traffic gaining 16.3% year-over-year [9] - Maggiano's revenues decreased by 1.2% year-over-year to $122.3 million, primarily due to poor comparable restaurant sales [10] - Maggiano's company restaurant expenses as a percentage of sales rose to 86.7%, impacted by an unfavorable menu item mix [12] Operating Results - Total operating costs and expenses for the quarter were $1.32 billion, up from $1.14 billion in the previous year [13] - Adjusted restaurant operating margin improved to 17.8% from 15.2% year-over-year [13] - Adjusted EBITDA for Q4 was $212.4 million, compared to $141.8 million in the prior year [13] Balance Sheet - As of June 25, 2025, cash and cash equivalents were $64.6 million, up from $15.1 million a year earlier [14] - Long-term debt decreased to $426 million from $786.3 million year-over-year [14] Future Outlook - For fiscal 2026, management anticipates total revenues between $5.60 billion and $5.70 billion, with adjusted diluted EPS projected in the range of $9.90 to $10.50 [15] - Recent estimates have trended upward, with a consensus estimate shift of 10.83% [16] - Brinker International holds a Zacks Rank 3 (Hold), indicating expectations for an in-line return in the coming months [18]